Are you a PCB student but don’t want to give the NEET exam, an exam that everyone is appearing for? Then you may be wondering about what to do, are there any other options in PCB rather than pursuing a career in the medical field? Then this blog is for you! Let me tell you guys, that NEET is not the only option for you. Many other exams can open up various opportunities for PCB students in different fields such as research, biotechnology, agriculture, and more. Let’s explore some of these exams in this blog.
1. IISER Aptitude Test (IAT):
The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) is your ticket to an exciting five-year dual degree program in basic sciences (BS-MS) at institutions like IISERs. It is conducted every year in June and is a real challenge. It’s a competitive test that checks if you’ve got your concepts down. The IAT is a competitive science test based on the 11th and 12th-grade syllabus for PCB student, lasting 3 hours with a maximum score of 180.
For more details about the IAT Exam, you can find them here. And if you’re curious about the cutoff marks for 2024, head on over to our blog about the IAT 2023 Cutoff Marks
Now you might be wondering what are IISERs. Let’s find out:
IISERs-
IISERs (Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research) are indeed gems in the realm of scientific education and research in India. There are a total of 7 IISERs located in Kolkata, Pune, Mohali, Bhopal, Thiruvananthapuram, Tirupati, and Berhampur.
IISERs open up a world of opportunities in the field of science. They’re not just about becoming a doctor; they’re about exploring the entire scientific spectrum – from biology to chemistry to physics (PCB) and more. Many IISERs offer scholarships to deserving students, which can ease the financial burden of your education.
There are some of the prominent personalities from IISERs like Dr. CNR Rao (Father of Indian Chemistry) and Dr. Sourav Pal (a distinguished professor at IISER Kolkata, have contributed significantly to India’s lunar exploration missions like Chandrayaan) who made remarkable contributions and have added immense value to IISERs. So If you’re passionate about making remarkable contributions like these, IISER is the place to be.
2. NEST (National Entrance Screening Test):
If you’re looking for an alternative to NEET after PCB, NEST (National Entrance Screening Test) is your golden ticket. It is a gateway to two premier institutions, NISER (National Institute of Science Education and Research) and CEBS (Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences). These institutions offer exceptional programs in the field of biology and basic sciences, making NEST a unique opportunity for PCB students.
NEST tests the students’ aptitude and knowledge in basic sciences and mathematics. What sets NEST apart is not just the opportunity for admission but also the potential for a scholarship (DISHA Scholarship of Rs.60k and INSPIRE scholarship of Rs.80K). It is like pursuing your dream of higher education without the burden of exorbitant fees!
Want to know about last year’s NEST 2023 cutoff, visit this.
NISER-
NISER offers integrated BS-MS programs in basic sciences or PCB, and it’s more than just a college; it’s a place where you can nurture your scientific curiosity and explore a wide array of disciplines, including biology.
What makes NISER truly stand out is its incredible placement record and recognition. Do you know NISER has been ranked second in the country by the Nature Index 2020? It’s affiliated with the Department of Atomic Energy, Govt. of India, and holds affiliations with prestigious institutions like Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai. Also, the Jatni campus of the institute received its official inauguration on February 7, 2016, with the distinguished presence of the Prime Minister of India, Shri. Narendra Modi.
To learn more about NISER and its programmes, you can visit our blog: What is NISER? – Everything about NISER.
CEBS-
CEBS is one of India’s finest research colleges collaborating with the University of Mumbai and the Department of Atomic Energy and has resulted in a world-class institution dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in basic sciences named UM-DAE CEBS.
This university boasts a rich history and a distinguished reputation as its alumni include renowned individuals like Mahatma Gandhi, Dada Bhai Naoroji, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Azim Premji, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Mukesh Ambani. Joining this institution means following in the footsteps of these remarkable figures who have left an indelible mark on our world.
Apart from its remarkable facilities, affordable fees and scholarships it has an excellent placement record. Here graduates have the opportunity to directly apply for interviews at BARC – the role of a scientific officer.
Excited to know more about this prestigious institute CEBS Mumbai, click here.
3. IACS Entrance Exam:
IACS (Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science) is a beacon of excellence in research and education in chemical sciences, and it’s right here in Kolkata, the cultural capital of India. Established way back in 1876, it’s a gem under the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India. They offer MSc and PhD programs in basic sciences. But if you’ve got a passion for chemistry and a desire to make waves in research, then the IACS Entrance Exam Test is your golden ticket to an incredible journey.
It holds the distinction of being the only institution in India with a Nobel laureate, thanks to Prof. CV Raman’s groundbreaking work on the Raman Effect. The faculty comprises renowned scholars, including Bhatnagar awardees and pioneering researchers, consistently publishing high-impact articles with numerous citations. IACS is ranked 6th globally in chemistry research and 4th overall in the Nature Index for 2021 and 2022. With a rich history, outstanding faculty, and international recognition, IACS is India’s premier institution for cutting-edge scientific research and innovation.
This is your ultimate chance to join the ranks of bright minds at IACS and be part of groundbreaking research. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to shape the future of science. Keen to learn more about its admission process, eligibility criteria and exam pattern, click here.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, if you’re a PCB student considering options beyond NEET, there’s a world of exciting opportunities awaiting you. Exams like the IISER Aptitude Test, NEST, and IACS Entrance Exam can open doors to prestigious institutions and diverse fields in science. From pursuing a dual degree in basic sciences at IISERs to exploring biology and basic sciences at NISER and CEBS, or delving into research and education at IACS, these exams offer scholarships and promising career prospects. So, don’t limit yourself to just one path; explore the myriad possibilities that await your passion and curiosity in the world of science.If you’re unsure about which career path to choose, you can read our blog to help clarify your decision: Medical vs Research.
If you want to prepare for IAT & NEST, you should follow some important tips like you must following a structured plan, learning from your mistakes, and staying focused on your goals. With SciAstra’s support, you can confidently work towards acing these exams. SciAstra has the best resources to prepare for IAT and NEST. Also, you can grab free PDF samples in the free study material section of the SciAstra App.
About us:
SciAstra is a team of scientists and research scholars from the top research institutes around the world like Oxford, Harvard, Cambridge, and so on. Our vision is to promote critical thinking and scientific temperament by helping students pursue careers in science.
We offer many free and paid courses where our mentors from the top research institutes like IISER, NISER, IACS, CMI, ISI, IISC Bangalore, etc teach students in live classes, with study materials, mock tests, books, and everything needed. We have taught more than 10,000 students already since 2021 and achieved over 1000 selections with AIR 1, 7,10, 12, and 13 in IISc Bengaluru, IISERs, NISER, IACS, and so on. If you are looking to prepare for IAT / NEST 2024, you can check out our courses and get access to live classes, recorded lectures, study material, mock tests, doubt-clearing classes, and much more!
To know more about us, click here OR download the SciAstra App from the Play Store!
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I don’t really know what to do my parents want me to become a doctor by getting myself in a govt. medical College because of less fees as I am from a lower middle class background but I want to explore want else I can do in the field of science. I have great interest in aerospace and rockets, missiles, stars, moon . But due to my financial situation I am confused it will be helpful for me if you would suggest some scholarship program or any experience program for my interest as I am only 16 years old and in present in class 11th .